Thermoelectric Research Technician

The Pennsylvania State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 22,000 - 31,000; Full time

Job summary

Penn State University is seeking a Research Technician to support thermoelectric materials and device development. The role involves materials synthesis, powder processing, consolidation, device fabrication, and performance testing in a hands-on laboratory setting.

You will perform alloy preparation, SPS hot pressing, and device assembly, while maintaining safety and meticulous documentation to support research outcomes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required.
• Basic understanding of materials synthesis, processing, and characterization.
• Interest in hands-on experimental research and laboratory equipment operation.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
• Good organizational, documentation, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist in synthesis and preparation of thermoelectric materials, including alloy preparation, powder processing, mixing, and milling.
• Perform material consolidation using SPS, hot pressing, and extrusion.
• Support device fabrication: sample cutting, polishing, metallization, bonding, and module assembly.
• Conduct materials characterization and device performance testing, including electrical and thermal transport measurements.
• Assist with testing of thermoelectric modules for power generation and cooling.
• Maintain lab equipment, document procedures, organize data, and assist with analysis of results.
• Follow lab safety procedures and maintain a clean research environment.

Skills

Hands-on experimental research

Laboratory equipment operation

Independent and collaborative work

Documentation and communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Materials Science and Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Physics

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry

Tools

Spark plasma sintering (SPS)

Hot pressing

Extrusion

Powder processing

Job description

Penn State University is seeking a Research Technician to support thermoelectric materials and device development. The role involves materials synthesis, powder processing, consolidation, device fabrication, and performance testing in a hands-on laboratory setting.

You will perform alloy preparation, SPS hot pressing, and device assembly, while maintaining safety and meticulous documentation to support research outcomes.